Boydell, John "John Boydell / Engraver"

John Boydell (1719-1804).  "John Boydell / Engraver."

London: John Boydell, 10 August 1777. 16 1/8 x 12 7/8 (image). Mezzotint by Valentine Green on laid paper.  Hair margins. Small replacement at bottom left corner; otherwise fine impression and time toning. Ref.: Smith, II, 538. 

John Boydell (1719-1804) was educated to be a surveyor but upon seeing some beautiful landscape prints by W.H. Toms he was determined to be an artist and so apprenticed himself to that same artist. He became a masterful engraver and made a fortune and great reputation for himself. When this portrait was published he had entered politics and had been elected alderman in his ward. Michael Bryant's Biographical Dictionary of Painters and Engravers states that he produced 4,432 engravings in his lifetime, and they were housed in the large volumes depicted over his left shoulder in this portrait. Boydell points to his print showing St. George and the Dragon, and an engraver's burin is on the table next to him. He is credited with transforming Britain from a print importing country to one that exported that valuable and prestigious product. In 1791 he was elected to be Lord Mayor of London and continued to provide prints for the general population and artists in England. An exquisite piece.